Bangladesh captain Mehdi Hasan Miraz was rushed to hospital after suffering a neck injury during the memorable ODI series win against Australia in Dhaka on Thursday.The all-rounder, who played through obvious pain to lead Bangladesh to a first-ever bilateral ODI series win against Australia, was hit on the side of his helmet by a quick rally Meredith bouncer during the chase.Despite falling to his knees after the blow and later reportedly vomiting during treatment, Mehdi refused to leave the field and led his side over the line with an unbeaten 22, hitting a six over fine leg to seal victory.
Fear of concussion after a helmet impact
This incident happened in the 34th over of Bangladesh’s innings. Team Physio Baijidul Islam Khan immediately attended to Mehdi while Australia’s team doctor also joined the field assessment. A stretcher was brought to the ground as a precaution.Although clearly distraught, the Bangladesh skipper resumed his innings and completed the chase in dramatic fashion.“Mehdi Hassan Miraz was injured during the match today,” said Bangladesh team physio Baijidul Islam Khan after the game.“He continued to play after being diagnosed in the middle. We have sent him to the hospital to assess his remaining symptoms and for general observation. He will remain there for the next 24 hours,” he added.Team officials later confirmed that Mehdi is out of danger but will remain under observation. Vice-captain Najamul Hussain Shanto attended the post-match presentation ceremony in his absence.
Bangladesh made history.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s pace bowlers rattled Australia as the visitors opted to bat first in a rain-hit contest.Tasin Ahmad and Mustafizur Rahman reduced the tourists to 0 for 3 thanks to half-centuries from Marence Labshagen and Xavier Bartlett and helped Australia reach 187 for 8 in the allotted 42 overs.Set a revised target of 192 in 41 overs, Bangladesh got valuable contributions from Soumya Sarkar (42), Shantu (41) and Toheed Hardoy, who remained not out on 40 runs.But it was Mehdi who duly applied the finishing touch, helping the hosts reach the target in the 35th over and seal a historic victory over one of the world’s most successful ODI teams.The third and final ODI will be played in Dhaka on Sunday before the teams leave for Chittagong for the three-match T20I series.
